Inside the old dining hall.

In more recent history, another landmark that once stood in the area is the former Co-operative department store – and news of the excavation has brought back fond memories for those who used to work at the site during its storied history.

One former member of staff, Stuart Cooke, came forward to share a 72-page souvenir book that commemorated the opening of the Co-operative in 1929. He also revealed a collection of pictures dating back to the 1930s.

The 75-year-old, who spent his whole career working at the store, told how he will always have fond memories of the Co-op, which sold everything from shoes and furniture to groceries during its 70-year history.